| Innogy Renewables |
| Glen Kyllachy Wind Farm located South of Inverness, Scottish Highlands. |
Project Facts and Figures
| Project Value | £2.3 Million |
| Project Duration | 15 months |
| Services | Electrical balance of plant for a wind farm |
| Market Sector | Renewable Energy, Wind Farm |
| DNO | SSE |
| Number of Turbines | 20 N90 2.5 MW turbines |
| Wind Turbine Capacity | 2.5 MW |
| Total Installed Capacity | 48.5 MW |
| Connection Voltage | 132 kV |
| Energy for | 100,000 Households |
| Length of Onsite 33 kV Cabling | 40 km |
Glen Kyllachy 48.5 MW Wind Farm
The Glen Kyllachy Wind Farm, located 11 miles south of Inverness, is a key renewable energy project in the Scottish Highlands. The 48.5 MW wind farm, featuring 20 Nordex turbines, supplies clean energy to thousands of homes, contributing to Scotland’s ambitious renewable energy targets.
Glen Kyllachy Wind Farm Development
The development of the Glen Kyllachy Wind Farm commenced in October 2019, with initial works focusing on site establishment, access track construction, and substation platform preparation. Despite the weather and further disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the project team made significant progress, completing 70% of access tracks and beginning the installation of major electrical components by mid-2020.
Glen Kyllachy Project Timings
- October 2019 Initial site works began
- March 2020 Site suspension due to COVID-19 lockdown
- July 2020 Site re-opened; electrical installation resumed
- March 2021 Turbine erection and grid energisation began
- Second Half of 2021 Project completion and operational commencement
The Substation and Wind Farm Generation
The wind farm’s substation, a critical component for converting and transmitting the generated electricity, operates at 132/33 kV. Powersystems was responsible for the complete electrical balance of plant, which included the installation of transformers, switchgear, and cabling to ensure the efficient operation of the wind farm and its integration into the national grid.
Glen Kyllachy Wind Farm Scope of work and Major Design Considerations
Powersystems’ scope of work encompassed the design, installation, and commissioning of all electrical components required for the wind farm’s operation. This included the 132/33 kV substation, high-voltage cables, and switchgear. Major design considerations included ensuring grid compliance, safe earthing systems, and the integration of SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems to monitor and control the wind farm’s performance.
The electrical balance of plant (EBoP) work that Powersystems completed for the Glen Kyllachy Wind Farm involved all the electrical infrastructure necessary to connect the wind turbines to the grid, excluding the turbines themselves.
High Voltage System (132 kV)
- 132/33 kV Transformer and Ancillary Equipment
Powersystems managed the connection between the 132 kV high-voltage system and the 33 kV system, including the supply and installation of overhead busbar conductors to link the SHETL (Scottish Hydro Electric Transmission Ltd) 132 kV disconnector to the wind farm’s substation
- 132 kV Disconnector and Earth Switches
We supplied and installed a 145 kV Lucy double side break disconnector with two earth switches, motorised for remote operation, along with Castell interlocking for safety and operational security
- 132 kV Circuit Breaker:
A 145 kV Dead Tank SF6 Circuit Breaker was installed, featuring protection and metering current transformers (CTs). This circuit breaker is critical for interrupting fault currents and protecting the electrical system
- Point on Wave Controller
Powersystems installed and commissioned a Vizimax Synchroteq Plus Point on Wave Controller to ensure synchronised switching, ensuring adherence to P28 requirements and reduction on voltage flicker and inrush from energisation of the customers grid transformer.
- Busbar Supports, Surge Arrestors, and Voltage Transformers (VTs)
We installed busbar supports and conductors, surge arrestors for surge protection, and 132 kV inductive VTs to enable precise control of the reactive power within the wind farm
33 kV System and Cables
- HV Cables Connecting Turbines
Powersystems installed 33 kV aluminium single-core cables across the wind farm, ensuring the transmission of electricity from the turbines to the substation. The cables were laid with longitudinal water blocking to prevent moisture ingress, maintaining the integrity of the system.
- Cable Laying and Testing
We were responsible for laying the 33 kV power cables, fibre optic cables for communication, and horizontal earth conductors. They performed high-voltage cable continuity tests and VLF (Very Low Frequency) testing to ensure the system’s reliability and safety. In conjunction with our client RJ McLeods we opted to plough the 33 kV cables using trenchless solutions and ploughing techniques.
33 kV Switchgear and Protection Systems
- Switchgear Installation
Powersystems installed and commissioned a 4-panel Schneider WS 33 kV switchboard. This included circuit breakers, busbar VT, and protection relays such as the Micom P341, which provides directional overcurrent and earth fault protection, along with G99 protection required for grid compliance.
- Protection and Control Systems
We installed various protection relays and systems within the switchgear to ensure that any electrical faults could be quickly isolated, minimising the risk of damage or downtime. This included trip circuits, local and remote-control switches, and the integration of these systems with the wind farm’s SCADA.
Substation and Ancillary Equipment
- Transformer Bund Pump and Earthing Systems
Powersystems installed a transformer bund pump with oil detection and SCADA monitoring capabilities. They also installed comprehensive earthing systems for both the turbines and substation, including earth electrodes, bare copper conductors, and specialist earthing designs to manage step and touch potentials.
- Backup Power and Safety Systems
The team supplied and installed a 50 kVA diesel generator for emergency backup power, along with a low voltage mains failure changeover panel. Additionally, they installed emergency trip push buttons and a battery charger to ensure the continuous operation of the switchgear and protection systems.
SCADA and Communication Systems
- SCADA Interface and Fibre Optic Network
Powersystems installed a comprehensive SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) system, including a fibre optic network linking the turbines to the substation. This network allows for real-time monitoring and control of the wind farm’s operations.
- HV SCADA System Installation
We integrated the HV SCADA system with the wind farm’s electrical infrastructure, ensuring all necessary signals from monitored equipment were correctly relayed to the central control system for efficient operation.
Design and Commissioning
- Electrical Design Studies
Powersystems conducted detailed design studies, including load flow analysis, short circuit analysis, protection coordination, and grid compliance studies. These studies ensured that the electrical system was robust, reliable, and met all regulatory requirements.
- Final Commissioning and Testing
After installation, Powersystems carried out extensive commissioning and testing of the entire electrical system to ensure everything functioned correctly and safely. This included cold commissioning, final terminations, and energisation of the grid connection.
Additional Works
- Substation Domestic Supplies
Powersystems installed electrical systems within the substation building, such as lighting, heating, small power outlets, fire, and intruder alarms. These systems were designed and installed to meet the latest IEE wiring regulations.
Powersystems Partnerships
Powersystems partnered again with RJ McLeod, a leading Scottish civil engineering contractor, to deliver the electrical infrastructure for the Glen Kyllachy Wind Farm. With extensive experience in high-voltage electrical systems, Powersystems was well-equipped to handle the project’s complexities, ensuring timely and efficient completion despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
What the Client Wanted
Innogy Renewables sought a reliable and experienced contractor to manage the electrical balance of plant for the Glen Kyllachy Wind Farm. The primary objective was to ensure the seamless integration of the wind farm into the national grid while adhering to strict timelines and regulatory requirements.
How Powersystems Helped
Powersystems delivered a comprehensive electrical infrastructure solution, overcoming logistical challenges and adverse weather conditions to keep the project on schedule. The team’s expertise in high-voltage systems and commitment to quality ensured that all components were installed and commissioned to the highest standards.
Innovative Subsidy-Free Wind Farm Project Sets New Standards
The Glen Kyllachy Wind Farm incorporated several innovative aspects that set it apart as a noteworthy project in the renewable energy sector.
Subsidy-Free Development – Economic Innovation One of the most innovative aspects of the Glen Kyllachy Wind Farm is that it was developed as a subsidy-free project. This demonstrates the financial viability and maturity of wind energy in Scotland. By proving that large-scale wind farms can be built and operated profitably without government subsidies, Glen Kyllachy sets a precedent for future renewable energy projects.
Advanced Electrical Infrastructure – Point on Wave Controller The use of a Vizimax Synchroteq Plus Point on Wave (PoW) controller in the electrical infrastructure is a significant innovation. This technology synchronises the switching of circuit breakers to minimise electrical stress, enhancing the reliability and lifespan of the system. It’s a sophisticated approach to managing grid connections and reducing operational risks.
Comprehensive SCADA Integration The wind farm’s use of a robust SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) system for real-time monitoring and control is another innovative element. The SCADA system enables precise management of the wind farm’s operations, optimising performance and ensuring efficient grid integration.
Challenging Site Location and Construction – Remote and Rugged Location The wind farm’s location in the Scottish Highlands, a remote and rugged area, posed significant challenges that required innovative construction techniques and logistics management. Powersystems and RJ McLeod had to develop bespoke solutions to deal with the harsh weather conditions, including working in temperatures as low as -13 degrees Celsius and managing complex terrain for the installation of access tracks and turbine foundations.
Resilience in Construction The project’s ability to progress despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and severe weather conditions is a testament to innovative project management and resilience. The ability to continue work and keep the project on schedule, despite these disruptions, highlights the adaptability and ingenuity of the construction teams.
Grid Compliance and Safety Innovations – Comprehensive Grid Compliance Studies Powersystems conducted advanced grid compliance studies, including load flow, short circuit analysis, harmonic analysis, and protection coordination. These studies ensured that the wind farm’s integration into the grid was not only compliant with all regulatory standards but also optimised for efficiency and safety.
Enhanced Earthing Systems The design and implementation of complex earthing systems to manage step and touch potentials under fault conditions represent a significant safety innovation. These systems were carefully engineered to protect both the infrastructure and the personnel working on-site.
Environmental and Economic Sustainability – Long-Term Environmental Benefits The wind farm’s design considered not only its immediate impact but also its long-term sustainability, with careful planning to ensure minimal disruption to local ecosystems. The project’s subsidy-free nature also supports long-term economic sustainability by reducing reliance on public funds and demonstrating the market viability of renewable energy.
The Results:
The successful energisation of the Glen Kyllachy Wind Farm’s grid connection marked a significant milestone in the project’s development. With the wind farm set to become fully operational in the second half of 2021, it is poised to contribute significantly to Scotland’s renewable energy capacity, delivering clean, sustainable power to thousands of homes.
Environmental Benefits
- The Glen Kyllachy Wind Farm is pivotal in Scotland’s transition to a low-carbon economy by significantly enhancing renewable energy capacity.
- With a 48.5 MW output, it generates clean energy sufficient to power thousands of homes, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and supporting Scotland’s goal of net-zero emissions by 2045.
- By integrating renewable energy into the national grid, the wind farm helps lower the overall carbon intensity of electricity. It also contributes to Scotland’s target of deriving 50% of its energy from renewable sources by 2030.
- The project’s subsidy-free model underscores the viability of wind energy, encouraging further investment. Additionally, Glen Kyllachy’s development minimizes environmental disruption by using previously developed land and implementing robust biodiversity protection measures.
Economic Benefits
- The Glen Kyllachy Wind Farm delivers substantial economic benefits, including job creation and local economic stimulation during its construction and operational phases.
- It supports long-term sustainable growth by providing a stable, renewable energy source, reducing environmental costs linked to fossil fuel use.
- The wind farm’s subsidy-free development showcases the economic feasibility of renewable projects, promoting further investment in the sector. Moreover, by bolstering Scotland’s renewable energy capacity, Glen Kyllachy aids national economic goals and energy independence, fostering industrial and commercial development and contributing to a more resilient and diversified energy economy.
Conclusion
Through meticulous planning, design, installation, and commissioning, Powersystems played a crucial role in delivering the electrical infrastructure needed to make the Glen Kyllachy Wind Farm a success, ensuring it was ready to generate and distribute renewable energy efficiently and reliably.
In summary, the Glen Kyllachy Wind Farm’s innovations span financial, technological, and environmental areas, making it a model for future wind energy projects. The combination of advanced electrical systems, innovative construction management in a challenging environment, and its subsidy-free financial model showcases the wind farm as a pioneering project in the renewable energy sector.
Speak to Powersystems Today
We would love to hear from you and talk through your projects with you